Bill > A07508

This bill establishes a demonstration program in Westchester County that introduces a dual track approach to child protective services, designed to provide a more flexible and less confrontational method of addressing child abuse and maltreatment reports. The program, which will run from January 2026 to December 2029, allows the local social services district to assign incoming reports to either an investigative track (traditional child protective services investigation) or a family assessment and services track. The family assessment track aims to increase voluntary family participation in services to improve family functioning and prevent repeat reports. A nine-member advisory council will be appointed to help implement and guide the program, with representatives from the county, state agencies, and legislative bodies. The bill specifies strict criteria for which types of reports can be diverted to the assessment track, excluding serious cases involving sexual abuse, severe physical abuse, murder, or significant child endangerment. For cases assigned to the assessment track, the district will conduct a safety check, offer supportive services, and work collaboratively with the family, while maintaining the ability to switch to an investigative track if serious concerns arise. The program will be evaluated, and records will be confidentially maintained, with the goal of finding more effective and less intrusive ways to support vulnerable children and families.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A7508